When did gothic fiction start?

It's difficult to pinpoint an exact date for the beginning of Gothic fiction, as it evolved gradually. However, most literary historians place its origins in the late 18th century, specifically around the 1760s.

Here's a breakdown:

* Early Influences: Elements of the Gothic can be traced back even further to medieval literature, particularly in works like "Beowulf" and "The Canterbury Tales".

* Precursors: Writers like Horace Walpole with his 1764 novel "The Castle of Otranto" are often considered foundational to the genre. It's a pivotal text that popularized many Gothic tropes like mysterious castles, supernatural elements, and suspense.

* 1790s and beyond: The genre gained momentum in the 1790s, with authors like Mary Shelley ("Frankenstein"), Ann Radcliffe ("The Mysteries of Udolpho"), and Matthew Lewis ("The Monk") contributing significantly to its development.

Therefore, while it's not possible to mark a specific date, it's generally accepted that Gothic fiction emerged and flourished in the late 18th century, leaving a lasting impact on literature and culture.